The Beaver Book a Guide to Settling in London and to Getting the Most out of Your LSE School of Public Policy Experience

The Beaver Book A Guide to Settling in London and to Getting the Most Out of Your LSE School of Public Policy Experience

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION 3 Chair of APPS Message Regarding the COVID-19 Pandemic | 4 Part I: Getting Settled

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INTRODUCTION

Congratulations and welcome to the School of Public Policy (SPP) at the London School of Economics!

Soon, you will find yourself in London and surrounded by SPP staff, continuing students, and fellow new students beginning an exciting new adventure at the LSE.

Moving to a new city in a new country while starting a new course can be overwhelming at first. It is only natural to have some questions and concerns about what to expect.

That is precisely why the School of Public Policy’s Association of Public Policy Students (APPS) created this Beaver Book. The Beaver Book aims to present new SPP students with handy, practical knowledge about the LSE and some helpful titbits about life in London from a student’s perspective.

Why the ‘Beaver Book’? It is an unusual name, so good question! The beaver is the mascot of LSE, as you can see in the badge on the cover. The beaver was adopted as the mascot of LSE in the 1920s because beavers live in peaceful communities and are industrious. We hope that all SPP students live up to that ambition!

We encourage you to join the Facebook group page for your class to start connecting with fellow SPP students. And, of course, the SPP team is always available ([email protected] for MPA queries; [email protected] for MPP queries) for technical questions on curriculum and the programme in general.

This document is a compilation of advice from current and former students. We welcome you again to the programme and look forward to getting to know you. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns!

Looking forward to meeting you soon!

Association of Public Policy Students (APPS) [email protected]

AN OBVIOUS BUT IMPORTANT WARNING

While we will do the best we can to keep this information accurate, up-to-date, and relevant, this document is not intended to be the only source of information on the SPP programmes or life in London. For important decisions, please refer to the appropriate primary sources, including LSE For You, student handbooks such as the offer pack, professors, advisors, the SPP team, etc.

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Chair of APPS Message Regarding the COVID-19 Pandemic

For the duration of the global pandemic and beyond, the APPS committee wants to help you make the most of the opportunities to learn and enjoy yourselves here at the LSE. In writing this foreword to all incoming students, we want to emphasize the impact our actions will have on ourselves and on our community, as well as to help ease your transition into a new school (and likely a new country for many of you).

Because you are making a worthwhile choice to study at the LSE while there is already so much taking place in our world, we want to help you thrive and find success no matter what comes your way. Therefore, we ask that you keep a few things in mind prior to the start of your programme.

All students should bookmark LSE’s Coronavirus Response for Students and their guidelines for community safety. These links provide important information including answers to frequently asked questions, counselling and well-being services, visa and immigration advice, and information if you will be living in LSE halls of residence. Due to the quickly changing nature of the situation, we advise you to frequently check these links as well as any further communications from the SPP and LSE to be informed and ready for your studies in London.

Any APPS-organised events that take place in-person will require masks for the time being as per the school’s regulations. Even when APPS events take place off campus, we will require masks whenever social distancing is not possible for the safety of our fellow students.

If you are coming into the UK on a Tier 4 Visa, you have paid into the NHS healthcare scheme. Therefore, you are advised to register online with a GP in London as soon as possible. St. Phillips Medical Centre is a highly recommended option by students for its convenience and location within LSE’s campus. Register here or with your preferred GP provider if there is one closer to where you will live.

While much of this booklet’s advice was written before the pandemic and some parts obviously may not apply this year, we urge you to exercise your best judgment throughout your study at LSE, as you already have leading up to now. We understand that some of the advice and precautions may be anxiety-inducing, but we are all in this fight against COVID-19 together. Only time will tell when we can return to “normal”, but your efforts will make a huge difference for your friends, colleagues, instructors, and your family near or far.

And no matter what, we will be here to help as your committee.

Stay safe, and we hope to see you all soon!

Justinian Yi President of APPS

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PART I: GETTING STARTED

ACCOMMODATION

Finding a place to live can be one of the more challenging things about moving to a new city. Fortunately, there are a multitude of resources to help you figure out what will work best for you.

Student Accommodation

• LSE offers student accommodation across the city; your offer letter contains information about LSE’s student accommodation. We recommend you apply early to ensure a place at your preferred accommodation. However, rooms become available throughout the year as students find other living situations, so be patient and you will probably be able to find a place you like eventually. This is also the easiest means of finding housing, click here for more information.

o The halls are scattered throughout London, so make sure you look at the distance from campus before making any decisions. Each offers a different environment depending on your preference of price, space, kitchen access, inclusive meals, and linens, and whether you care if it is solely for postgrads or mixed with undergraduate students as well. o LSE also provides some housing for those coming with their spouse and/or family.

• The University of London, Urbanest, and Goodenough College offer inter- collegiate halls of residence as well. Students in these dorms will be from many different colleges and universities in London. You can apply directly through their accommodation pages or the LSE website if these interest you.

Private Housing

• If needed, LSE halls of residence offer temporary short-term housing for students when they first arrive in London. This can be a great way to get your bearings until you find private housing, click here.

• Consider using your programme Facebook group page or LSE Flat Share Facebook groups to help you find others needing roommates.

• DO NOT USE CRAIGSLIST to find housing as the London-based version is rife with scams. The more widely used version is GumTree – that said, still be wary. • Good sites to use to search for private housing are Zoopla, RightMove, and OpenRent

• Try using Speed Flat Mating and SpareRoom if you need to find a flatmate.

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• LSE is located in Zone 1 (see “Transportation” for more information on this). While rent is higher in Zones 1 and 2, transportation is cheaper. Rent gets lower as you move further away from Central London, just remember to factor in the difference in transportation costs.

WORD OF WISDOM: even the most reputable of websites are prone to scams and fake ads. You should always use caution when finding accommodation online, especially if the price seems too good to be true!!! You should never hand money over straight away, without having some form of renters’ agreement. Similarly, be wary if someone you have never met asks you to send money online. You should always try to see the accommodation before sending money.

Tips About the London Housing Market

• If you plan on living in private accommodation, it might be helpful to arrive in London a few days before the Introductory Course, so you have time to look at places. Give yourself time to search for a place, especially if you are new to London.

• The London housing market moves quickly. Flats may not be posted until there is a vacancy, so do not feel like you need to start looking immediately. Some landlords may not want to rent to someone they have not met in person, so it might prove easier to find accommodation once you are in London.

• Prices are shown either per week, or per month. If it is per week, a good way to calculate your monthly rent is to multiply your per week cost times 52 (week in a year) and divide it by 12 or multiply the per week cost times 4.5.

• Negotiating the cost of rent can be effective so do not be shy to try and talk the price down.

• Most locations will be identified by their proximity to the nearest tube station or by postal code

• In certain cases, students will have to pay 6 months’ rent up front (so be prepared in case your student loans have not been disbursed yet)

• If you have any questions regarding your lease agreement, or your rights as a tenant, the LSE Students Union offers a contract checking service for students. More information can be found here.

• An alternative to having to pay 6-months of rent upfront is to have a UK based guarantor. However, they must usually earn 2.5x the annual rent of your flat to be a guarantor and must live in the UK. LSE Student Services can answer questions about this if it comes up.

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• LSE can also be Guarantor to returning international students who have previously lived in LSE halls for one year. This may be useful for MPA’s entering their Second Year. Eligibility information can be found on their website.

• Furnished, or partially furnished, flats to let are quite common, so you should check what you know will be provided before purchasing lots of household items

• Rent payments usually do not include utility bills (electricity, gas, etc.). You can ask the landlord for the average cost of bills. Be sure to investigate prices in the winter and for the rest of the year since heating costs can increase wintertime utility bills substantially.

• Another good way to find an apartment is going to the local agencies in the boroughs, but this has a cost.

• If you are living in private housing, be sure to register in a timely manner with your Council as a student to ensure you are exempt from the Council Tax if you live with more students.

o If some of your flatmates are not students, your flat is only entitled to get a 25% discount. If the majority of your flatmates are not students, you may not receive any discount.

o Be aware that if you do not register as a student and do not pay the full Council Tax fee on time, you may be summoned to court and issued a fine. Check your local council website to find out how to register and for more information. To apply for exemption, you will need a Council Tax exemption certificate from LSE, which can be collected from the Student Services Centre upon completing your registration as a student.

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Postcodes

Many flat letting sites list flats by postal codes rather than by address. Below is a map with London’s postcodes so you can see where you are located. LSE’s campus is in WC2.

Once you reach London you will realise that the best way to get around is by postcodes. If you type a postcode in Google maps or any app to help you get around it will give you most of the time the exact location of the place you are looking for.

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SHOPPING

Upon arrival, your priority will be finding suitable accommodation and getting settled.

LSE Student Accommodations are furnished but may not include such things as bed linens, towels, toilet tissue, food, pots, dishes, etc. If you do choose to stay in student accommodations, many items like linens and dishes may be purchased from the halls of residence itself. Keep in mind that the set “linen pack” or “kitchen pack” from the halls may or may not suit your needs. Check the sizing specifications for your accommodation when furnishing.

For those of you choosing to stay in a private residence, a rented flat may or may not be furnished. Furnished flats vary in what they include. Some include dishes, kitchen utensils and bed linens and some do not. You may find yourself needing or wanting to pick up these things upon arrival.

Department Stores for Home Goods

Some of these stores deliver either for free or for a cost, which may be worth it when shopping for a new place. However, Amazon delivers for free and very quickly in the UK and often has much of what you are looking for, so it is worthwhile checking it out if you want to compare prices.

• Primark o Primark stores are all over London, you can find a couple of big ones in Oxford Street (the main street in Central London where people do a lot of shopping). o Quality might not be the best, but prices are quite low. o Here you will find bed linens, towels, cushions, clothes, etc. • Argos o Bedding, linens, pillows, electronics, kitchen supplies, furniture, packing boxes, iron, etc. • Ikea o Furniture, bedding, towels, kitchen supplies, etc. o There are four in the Greater London area. Ikea usually runs a free bus between the closest station of public transportation: Wembley (off Jubilee Line), Croydon (on Southern Rail), Tottenham Hale (off the Victoria line) and Lakeside (via bus) o Ikea can take a week or two to deliver your items once you have ordered them • John Lewis o Bedding, linens, pillows, towels, umbrella, cooking utensils, electronics, etc. o Beauty goods – makeup, hair dryers, straighteners, etc. • Robert Dyas o Tools, kitchen supplies, appliances, batteries, light bulbs, hardware • Costco o The closest Costco(s) to London are in Chingford (8 miles) and Croydon (11 miles).

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o It may not be worth the distance, but you can always share a rental/zip car with others, which is particularly helpful if you need to buy large items. o Costco requires a membership card. If you own one back home, it should be valid here.

Food Shopping

Central London is dominated by several grocery store chains including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, The Co-operative, Waitrose, and Marks & Spencer (M&S). However, this does not mean you need to do all your shopping there.

Some branches are larger than others, so it might be worth shopping around to find one that suits your needs. For example, you can find Tesco-Extra in several areas that carry nearly everything from clothing to a bakery to electronics. Keep in mind that Waitrose and M&S tend to be more expensive, though also sometimes carry higher quality items.

If you go a bit further (to zone 2 or the “outer areas” of zone 1) you can also find large super markets that have a wider variety of affordable options: examples of this are ASDA, Morrison, Lidl and Iceland. Produce tends to be cheaper when bought at stands on the side of the road (there are usually two near Holborn Tube Station).

Consider exploring the many markets in London as well (see Part III). Fresh seafood can be bought at the Billingsgate Fish Market. Be sure to make note of hours of operation as some stores close earlier than others or are closed altogether on Sundays.

There are five Whole Foods locations throughout the city. Also, there are numerous “international” groceries throughout different neighbourhoods for specialty items and spices. This includes several Chinese grocery stores in Chinatown (close to the Tottenham Court Road tube station). These carry a wide range of international products that are generally better quality than the international food sections at British chain supermarkets.

Ask your classmates if they have found any good deals that they can tell you about – you usually do not have to look too far to find a better option than Tesco!

Pharmacy

Boots and Superdrug are the main pharmacies in London – they have locations throughout the city. These are good places to fill prescriptions and buy makeup, aspirin, deodorant, shampoo, plasters (bandages for those who are not up on their British English), etc. There are also many local pharmacies that can easily cater to your more unique needs (and they also tend to be cheaper than Boots or Superdrug).

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If you are used to buying antibiotics without a prescription, this is something that will not happen in the UK. Make sure that you bring any prescriptions you might need or stock up on any medicine you think you may need from home.

GETTING A MOBILE PHONE

Many students prefer the low-budget service provider GiffGaff. It operates on the O2 network which has good service throughout the city. Other major providers include Vodafone, Lebara, Orange, T- Mobile, and Three. All of them have reasonably good service throughout London and are not attached to a network so it is easy to change providers when preferred.

The quickest way to have a phone is the Pay As You Go (PAYG) method. You can get a SIM card and top up with minutes whenever you need to do so. Another alternative is to get monthly plans that you can buy anytime you want. However, you may get a better deal with a longer contract. Longer contracts offer better rates, but they may require you to have a UK bank account before signing up.

Carphone Warehouse locations have magazines each month that lay out the different providers, plans, and payment options.

If you own an iPhone, Samsung or other cellular device with a SIM card, you may be able to use your own phone in the UK as long as you are able to first “unlock” (jailbreak) your phone. The best way to do this is to contact your previous cell phone provider and tell them you have moved out of the country and they should send you an “unlock” code with instructions on how to do it yourself. There are also places throughout London that will unlock your phone for you, but this may result in voiding your phone´s warranty (You should have in mind that some countries' configurations make your phones unlockable).

Phones without a SIM card will not work in the UK.

You may have noticed that many phone numbers include a 0 in parentheses. For example, the main number featured on the LSE’s website is written +44 (0)20 7405 7686. Outside the UK, you do not dial the 0. However, inside the UK, you skip the country code +44 and begin by dialling with the 0.

Most phone plans now will allow you to travel to several other countries around Europe and use your 3G data and calls without an additional cost. Inquire with phone providers to see which contracts or SIMS would include this to add ease to travelling.

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SETTING UP A BANK ACCOUNT

Depending on your home banking/credit card situation you may choose to open a UK bank account. Many students choose to do so to have easy access to pounds and to get a contactless debit card.

Banks and Branches: There is no shortage of banks around LSE’s campus. Most banks offer student accounts that are tailored for temporary residents, including international students!

The most common banks used by students are Barclays, NatWest, Santander, HSBC, and Lloyds. All have branches within convenient walking distance of campus.

Setting up an Account: The process to set up an account can take a bit of time so it helps to have enough money with you when you arrive in the UK to manage while you wait for your bank account to be set up?

1. Make an appointment to set up an account with the bank. Tip: Many banks around campus will be extremely busy at the start of the school year, so consider making an appointment at a branch closer to where you live. You can usually make these appointments online. 2. You MUST get a letter from LSE confirming you are a student. You can now get certificates of registration direct to your email via the SSC webpages. 3. Bring your letter, your passport, and your BRP visa to the bank when you go for your appointment. 4. You will need to provide your UK address, if you do not have one when you set up an account you can use LSE’s address. 5. Your card should arrive within a couple of days. 6. Some banks will not give international students contactless cards (Barclays does give them!) so if that is important to you, make sure to check with the bank before opening an account. You can get around this by using Monzo which is a pay as you go contactless debit card. Monzo is also a bank and it is much easier to use than traditional full-service banks. You can set up an account online using your BRP and receive a contactless card within 2 days. There is no need to have a letter from LSE or an appointment.

Transferring Money Overseas

Depending on your home bank, transfer fees can be expensive. TransferWise offers affordable, quick, and easy to use international transfers. You can transfer money directly to your UK account or other people’s accounts.

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TRANSPORTATION

London has an extensive and well-developed public transportation system. If you plan on using it, you might need an Oyster Card. An Oyster Card is a plastic card that can be used for riding the London Underground (Tube), Overground train and buses. Anyone spending more than one day in London should consider buying the card as it reduces one’s fares. You can get an Oyster Card at any Tube stop for a £5 deposit. You can add credit to your Oyster card at Tube stations, most convenience stores or online.

As an alternative to an Oyster Card, you can use a contactless debit/credit card, Apple pay, or other contactless payment apps. They work the same way as the Oyster Card, and you are charged the same fare at the end of the journey. International students should check for potential foreign transaction fees, or any other relevant issues, before using this option!

Once you are settled, registered at LSE, and have an address, you can apply for a Student Oyster Card for 20pounds. This card provides further discounts only if you purchase a monthly or weekly pass for the bus, Tube and/or Overground but otherwise operates as a normal Oyster Card if you only top up by adding credit. The application for a Student Oyster Card is available on the Transport for London (TFL) website and the card will arrive by mail. This is a good option if you are frequently travelling on the Tube to and from LSE.

The TFL site is extremely useful for learning about the transport systems, finding the closest bus routes, and planning your trip. If you have a smartphone, consider downloading some of the suggested apps at the end of this section to help navigate your way through the city. Also, since you are a full-time student you qualify for the 16-25 years-old rail card by just giving proof of your student status. This card gives you 1/3 discount on any ticket purchased on the National Rail System. This is worth it for even just one trip to Edinburgh! It is also often required if you plan to play for an LSE sports team as you will need to travel to match locations a little way from London. You can also link your student National Rail Card with your Student Oyster card and receive a 1/3 discount on all pay-as-you-go trips that you use your Oyster card on.

London Underground (Tube)

The Tube, i.e. the underground train, is the lifeblood of the London transportation system. When using the Tube, just swipe your Oyster card/contactless payment at the turnstiles in the Tube station (called ‘touching in’) and again upon exiting at your destination (‘touching out’) and you will automatically be charged based on your distance travelled. The Tube network has eight “zones” and the fare increases the more zones you cross. In terms of price, buses are the least expensive, with a flat £1.50 fare on every ride.

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Some helpful tips: • LSE is located closest to Holborn (Central and Piccadilly Line), Temple (Circle and District Line), and Embankment (Northern and Bakerloo Line) stations (the latter is a bit further than the other two). • The layout of the Tube map, available at every Tube station and online, is only a rough map of the city - meaning the locations of the stations on the map are not always drawn to scale! • Most stations close between 12:00-12:30am but night buses are often available to take you to where you are trying to go. The Night Tube now runs on some lines through the night on Fridays and Saturdays including the Central and Piccadilly lines that stop at Holborn.

Walking

Central London is quite a small place. If you rely on the tube, you probably will not realise that in many cases, it is almost quicker (and more pleasant!) to walk between nearby stations in ‘Zone 1’.

Once you get your bearings, central London is an easy place to get around and you’ll find so many more ‘hidden secrets’ on foot that you would on the tube or on a bus. Of course, come February you’ll prefer the steamy tube to the icy rain in the streets, but when the sun is out, there are few nicer things to do than walking through one of London’s scores of parks or ambling along the Thames.

Buses

London is known for its double-decker red buses and for good reason. The buses go everywhere and seeing London from the upper deck of a bus is a great way to get to know the city and learn your way around!

There is not an all-encompassing bus route map but the book “Not for Tourists: London” has the best one we have seen. Almost every station has a map and list of which bus will take you to which station. Do not fear the bus system, as it is sometimes the most efficient way to get where you are going. You can use your Oyster Card and it is cheaper than the Tube. If you choose to take the bus at night, the lines that run all night are denoted with a ‘N’ (e.g. N38). A phone app will help you decide which is the best to take. Unlike the Tube, once you ‘touch in’ to the bus you do not have to touch out at the end of your journey.

Be aware that night buses are not as common as day buses and sometimes are so packed that the drivers skip some bus stops to avoid picking up more people. It is best to approach using night buses as a formative and educational social experience.

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Bicycling

Cycling is probably the quickest and most convenient means of getting around London when it is not raining (too hard), and many of the transport apps (e.g. Santander Cycle Hire, Citymapper and Google maps) recommend quieter cycle- friendly routes that get you off some of the more congested roads.

It is safe to ride both during the day and the night as long as you acquaint yourself quickly with the general biking laws and direction of traffic. Note that people are quite respectful of traffic lights while wary of aggressive taxis (who are not the cyclist’s friend!).

Accidents involving cyclists do happen, and when they do they tend to make the news. However, you can help to mitigate any risks by always wearing a high-visibility coat/jacket (very cheap), always wearing a proper helmet, using cycle lights whenever needed, obeying the laws of the road and not listening to music as you cycle. It is always better to be safe!

If you choose to purchase a bike, be sure to budget in a good quality lock, as bike thievery is quite common. It is highly encouraged that you consider an iron wire lock that is long enough to snake through all key parts of the bike (such as the Kryptonite KryptoFlex) combined with a padlock as well. There is also secure bike storage in the basement of the New Academic Building and showers in various places across campus. Additionally, in the UK, the police will write tracking codes on your bike in invisible ink, so if your bike is stolen and the police recover it, they can find out whose bike it is and return it to you.

If you are thinking about purchasing a bicycle, you can check out GumTree and the Brick Lane Market on Sunday mornings. New and used bikes can also be found at the stores such as Camden Cycles and Evans Cycles. London also has a bike share known as Santander Cycles who have several docking stations located on and near campus. However, be aware that there is often no space to park your bike during peak hours. Download Santander Bike phone app so you can plan ahead!

Cabs

The only taxicabs officially sanctioned by the city of London are black cabs. However, an affordable and safe alternative is to hire a “minicab” such as Addison Lee, though there are a number of other companies out there that may be cheaper depending on your location. Using phone apps or even your Twitter account to hail a cab will make your life infinitely easier! Private hire car apps such as Uber operate in London and can be more affordable at certain times of the day.

You can also pre-book a taxi to pick you up at the airport or if you need to move. Minicabit, as well as Uber are good options in this circumstance.

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Some Helpful Applications Include: Google Maps, Citymapper, TFL Journey Planner, London Bus, Tube Exits, Oyster Info, Journey Pro, Bus Checker, National Rail, Bus Mapper, Santander Cycles, London Oyster Balance, Hailo Black Cabs and Addison Lee.

FITNESS CENTRES

During the first few weeks of school, several gyms will be on campus promoting their facility. In addition, others around town will be offering special promotions such as “12-months for the price of 10”. Many will also drop the joining fee as well so if you can, try waiting until September to choose. The best deal is to sign up for a full year, but most gyms give you the option for a shorter contract, while some allow you to use their facilities for just the day as well. Please note that all prices listed in this guidebook are subject to change.

The LSE Gym is located at the 4th floor of the Saw Swee Hock Student Centre. It is open weekdays from 7am to 10pm and weekends from 10am to 6pm. Membership is £225 for 12 months and £142 for 6 months. You can also sign up to pay monthly by direct debit £19/month. LSE gyms often have promotions at the beginning of the year or halfway through the year with discounted memberships.

The next best option in terms of getting the “best bang for your buck” is the UCL gym membership, Bloomsbury Fitness near Euston Station, which currently lists a 12- month contract for only £19 per month. University of London’s Energybase near Russell Square currently lists £240 for a 12-month contract (£125 for a 6-month contract) and includes a 33-metre swimming pool.

Closer to campus is Oasis Sports Centre in Covent Garden, which is part of the Better Gym network throughout the UK. There is an option to either join this gym, one closer to your home, or the option for a pan-UK that allows you to access all their gyms. In addition to machines and classes, Oasis has both an indoor and outdoor pool that operate all year round. Student membership, with a promotion, is estimated to be around £30 per month for a year’s contract. It is also possible to pay a daily fee to use their pools if you prefer.

LA Fitness has several gyms across London, including one less than a two-minute walk from LSE (Waldorf branch). They have a clean facility with classes and a lap pool and memberships are around £45 per month for a 12-month contract.

Fitness First is another gym less than 10-minute walk from LSE and offers the generic facilities and classes most people require in a gym. Prices for students range between £40-£60 per month for a 12- month contract, depending on the type of membership you choose.

Gymbox is an alternative gym that offers a range of unique yet challenging classes to complement their gym facilities. Classes include “Electric Hula-Hooping”, Pole Dancing and “Retro Dance” (think Jane Fonda), it is the same kind of workout, simply with a bit of a twist! Less than 10-minutes’ walk from LSE, prices average around £50/month for a 12-month contract.

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Virgin Active is an impressive facility, which includes a swimming pool and is about a 10-15-minute walk from LSE. A minimum six-month contract will cost around £65/month for students.

There are a range of fitness centres as well as isolated exercise studios across the city that fit everyone’s interests and preferred budget so do not hesitate to shop around! Consider using coupon sites such as Groupon and Timeout to look for deals on those closest to you as well. These are offered all year round.

THE NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICE (NHS)

For some, universal healthcare is a very foreign concept. You will soon learn that it is amazing but also somewhat challenging to navigate. Be sure to prepare before leaving for London by compiling all relevant medical records and existing prescriptions from your doctor at home to bring with you.

The LSE website provides some helpful information about how to register for a doctor, urgent care, etc. LSE strongly encourages you to register with a doctor as soon as you can, and we repeat that advice!

You can find your nearest GP by using the GP finder on the NHS website. You may be asked to provide proof that you are a student when registering with a GP.

The important thing to understand is that many services offered by the NHS are free. However, to be referred to a specialist, it can take several months so it is best to see a general practitioner as soon as possible to receive this referral (supported by paperwork from your existing medical provider to prove its need).

Enquire with your doctor’s office upon registration regarding free prescriptions which you may be eligible for if you are entitled to a ‘HC2 certificate’.

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SAFETY TIPS

London is a major metropolitan city and crime is as much an issue here as anywhere else. LSE is located in the heart of the city, so make sure you are always using your “street smarts”. • Consider buying travel insurance for your valuables • Bag thieves are a problem in London, and you are an easy target so be vigilant on the Tube and bus, particularly after a long night at the pub! • Most buildings on campus are accessible to the public and thieves know that many LSE students carry expensive laptops. Consider purchasing a laptop lock.

Tips for Avoiding Thieves: Be Vigilant! • When seated, keep a purse/bag on your lap or strap wrapped around your knee • Use a laptop bag with a good zipper/clicking mechanism • Keep wallets in your front pocket, and when walking in a crowded area (Tube, bus, pub, etc.) keep a hand on your wallet/cell phone • As silly as it sounds to say, bag thieves look and dress like everyone else so be sensitive to overly friendly strangers! • Bag thieves often work in teams, so be weary if two people come and sit strangely close to you. Tighten your hold on that purse/bag strap and let them know you are on to them. • Invest in a good backup drive for all your documents and consider purchasing laptop insurance. • Do not make yourself an easy target: keep an eye on your surroundings and do not flash expensive mobile phones around (like walking while texting!)

CCTV

London employs a system of closed-circuit television cameras on almost every street and corner of the city. Although it may be a bit creepy at first knowing that the city may record your movements, it is often a reliable and effective safety measure. While walking around, you will see signs for CCTV in many parts of London.

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II: THE FIRST FEW WEEKS AT LSE

INTERNET ACCESS

Right away, you can get free Wi-Fi at numerous cafes, restaurants, and public spaces like museums around town. If you choose to rent a flat, you may have to have Internet access set up for you. Contact British Telecom, PlusNet, TalkTalk, Virgin, or other providers as soon as you land because you may have to wait up to six weeks to get hooked up. Sad but true (really!), so plan ahead.

Other options include “dongle” Internet, which is a USB that you put into your computer and runs on a SIM card similar to a phone plan. These can be quite expensive but are an option for your flat during the interim period.

You must also check with internet providers that they can provide internet to your flat block in your neighbourhood. Internet companies are restricted in the services they can provide you based upon your geographic location and type of connection in your building.

Student accommodations provide Internet access in the rooms although you may need to pick up an Ethernet cable from reception so make sure your computer has a port for it in case this is required.

Set up your LSE email account within your first few days on campus. To do this, use any LSE computer and type “selfreg” for both the username and password. The system will walk you through the rest. Residence halls offer pamphlets that will walk you through how to do this. Once you have an LSE email address, you can access your LSE email from any device with Internet access. If you feel that your LSE email address is too long do not worry, you can use your username as your email.

Check your LSE email regularly to keep up on important announcements such as classroom changes and cancellations, information from the SPP team and job postings from the careers office. Try to read all these notices when they come out to make sure that you do not miss anything important.

In addition, shortly after your orientation, the SPP programmes team will begin to transmit all official emails through your LSE email address so make sure to check it regularly or connect it to your personal email/ Email program (e.g. Outlook)

If you need assistance you can see the IT help centre on the first floor of the LSE library. They can also help you to connect your LSE email to your phone.

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PRINTING

Printing things at the LSE takes more steps than you may be used to. To use LSE printers, you need to add credit (money) to your Papercut printing account – information on how to do this is available here. You also have the option of printing via your mobile.

Once you have credit, print your documents from any LSE computer connected to a printer. Then go to a printing station computer (usually the computer closest to the printer) and log in, highlight your document(s) in the queue and select “Print”. If you have an Inclusion Plan, request that Disability Services add credit to your account. Many students choose to print out lecture slides prior to attending lectures. If you opt to do so, try planning ahead as a common use printer may run out of paper or have a long queue.

There are many printers on campus and in LSE student accommodations, so try to find some outside the library, as they are crowded and can sometimes take a while to print. The basement of the Old Building, and the basement of Clement House and the NAB all have reliable printing facilities. The Department of Economics building, 32 LIF, also has a great computer lab.

LECTURES AND SEMINARS

The academic calendar is divided into Michaelmas Term (Sept-Dec), Lent Term (Jan-March) and Summer Term (April-June). Exam dates will not be released until late February, so keep this in mind when making any spring travel arrangements. Look at the LSE Term Dates for specific dates.

Courses are divided into lectures and seminars (for historic reasons, seminars on economics courses are usually referred to as ‘classes’). A lecture is just what it sounds like. The teacher teaches a larger group based on the weekly curriculum. Questions in lectures should be kept to a minimum to make sure the class is able to cover all the material. More detailed questions should be addressed during the seminars or office hours (do not be shy about going to office hours, if you do not understand something speak up).

Seminars are smaller group classes designed to reinforce what you learned in the lecture. In the seminars, you will discuss problem sets, do group exercises, and have the opportunity to ask more detailed questions. Note that some seminars will cover completely new topics altogether so skipping one just because you understood the lecture is not advised. Attendance is taken at seminars and if you are on a Tier 4 visa, skipping lectures or seminars could endanger your immigration status.

You will not have a choice about the timing of your lectures, but you may have a choice about the timing of your seminars.

When choosing your seminar timetable you might want to take into account these questions: Do you want to have your seminar on the day following your lecture to really reinforce the lesson while it´s still fresh in your mind? Or do you want a few

20 | P a g e days to mull over the lecture and work on the problem sets before the seminar? Sometimes the teacher is fresher on the topic earlier in the week. Other times, later seminars have given the teacher a chance to work out any kinks in the programme. There is no right or wrong answer; find what works best for you.

Try to sign-up for your seminar times as soon as possible as the good time slots fill- up quickly. However, you can always try and “trade” spots with people via your class Facebook page if desperate. Planning your schedule earlier rather than later is especially important in case you also want to take a language course.

GETTING TO CLASS All the LSE buildings have a special code for identifying the building, floor, and room number. For example, CLM.4.06 refers to Clement House, Floor 4, Room 06. You may have classes in many different buildings so below are some important examples to help orient you during your first week:

CLM: Clement House (classrooms) CBG: Centre Building (SPP is based on the 5th floor) OLD: Old Building (some classrooms are off the entrance next to the Student Services) NAB: New Academic Building (classrooms)

Building work around campus means that streets highlighted on this map may only be partially accessible.

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If a class is slotted for 10:00 to 12:00, class officially begins at 10:05 and ends at 11:55. The same logic holds for one-hour classes and seminars. This is LSE policy and allows for time needed to get through congested areas between classes. However, it is strongly discouraged not to be tardy as instructors are very aware (and annoyed) when this happens. They may even make all their important announcements at the beginning of class.

Take note of which floor your class is located on as you may have different lectures on different floors in the same building but on different days. Some buildings, especially Clement House, get very congested in between classes so give yourself a few extra minutes of “commuting” time. Clement House has two stairwells (the second is located toward the centre of the building and gets used very little). The lifts can get crowded or may break down so often the stairs are the fastest route. Around Campus there are many quiet study spaces to check out: NAB 8th floor, Shaw Library, 32LIF Seminar Rooms, 32LIF Post Grad Room (almost always quiet), the British Library, and Kings Library.

IMPORTANT WEBSITES

The registration pack that you receive during orientation, along with information sessions, will go into further detail about how to navigate the official LSE website. Please note that most of the websites below will require an LSE ID to access them. LSE For You (LFY) serves as your administrative point for all things LSE. Use this site to register for courses, update your personal information (such as your contact information when you move to London), check on the status of your tuition payments and bills, check exam grades, etc.

• Moodle Moodle serves as the central gathering point for administering courses. Teachers post syllabi, lecture notes, course assignments, reading lists, required readings, lecture captures, etc. It may also be used to host discussion boards for your lectures or seminars. Assessed coursework is often submitted via Moodle.

• Association of Public Policy Students (APPS) APPS sends out weekly newsletters with information on news, events, and activities organized by them.

• Past Exams (via the Library) All previous exams are available in PDF format online for students. These exams serve as a great way to preview a course you are thinking about taking. They are also helpful when reviewing and preparing for exams in May/June. More information about exams will be provided in Lent and Summer Term. Often these are available on Moodle prior to the exams.

• LSE Library This is a very useful resource to have at hand throughout the academic year. You can access journals, online resources, and find out where in the library hard copies are located.

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• Student Hub Available on iOS and Android app stores or as a web app, the Student Hub app brings together everything that LSE has to offer, helps you to create communities, allows you to follow your own department as well as book appointments at the LSE.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS

LSE grades students anonymously so your identification number is important. Here is an abbreviated chart of the purpose of each number assigned:

Type of Where to Find It Purpose Number Student ID Identification and Administrative LSE ID Card Number Purposes Library Bolded on your LSE ID Card Check out books Number On the LSE For You site under Library PIN “Library” To check out books from the Number (you can ask at the information desk in course- materials section case you forget it as well) Used to identify you on all Candidate On the LSE for You site under assessed work and exams, usually Number “Examinations” released in November

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PART III: LONDON ALIVE

PUBS & CLUBS

London is known for its pubs and it certainly does not disappoint. There are several pubs on the LSE campus and nearby that are listed below but note that the options seem infinite, pending on your preferred ambiance. Pubs typically close around 10pm or 11pm with the clubs opening around that same time. There are no laws about drinking on the street in the UK so you will often find people spilling out of the pubs and drinking pints on the sidewalks on nice evenings. Drink responsibly!

Clubs are usually open in the evenings every night of the week. They often have live music and areas for dancing, lounging and some with pubs attached. Some main club areas include Shoreditch (Old Street), West End (Soho and Chelsea), Camden, Covent Garden, and Dalston, the latter having venues that close as late as 6am. Most clubs have a cover fee for entry – some require you to book in advance when certain acts are playing.

We have listed a few of the local pubs near LSE but stay tuned for activities organized by APPS throughout the year at a number of fun locations throughout the city – a great way to experience new venues while socializing with your peers (often coupled with supporting a good cause as well)!

Nearby Pubs • Three Tuns / George IV / White Horse - These three pubs are located on the LSE campus. Located on the Ground Floor of the Saw Swee Hock Student Centre, the Three Tuns opens early and offers breakfast and lunch. This is also the cheapest place to get a beer on campus. Note that it is the pub where undergraduates hang out. The George is the unofficial graduate student pub, which past SPP students prefer more. White Horse is the smallest of the three and has a decent lunch menu. This is where the older crowd (faculty, some PhD students) hangs out. • Shakespeare’s Head - Located on Kingsway, just around the corner from campus. Open for lunch and dinner. Has a ton of space so it is great for large group get-togethers. • Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese - Located on Fleet Street, it is great for history and atmosphere but can be a bit expensive. • The Knights Templar – Located across the land where the Warrior Knights originally built their residence during the 12th century. It is a fun pub located on Chancery Lane, only a few minutes’ walk from LSE. • Philomena’s – A family owned Irish sports bar located in Convent Garden (formerly O’Neill’s). • Princess Louise – This spacious, two-storied pub is a great example of what a Victorian public house once looked like where drinking was segregated by social status. Today it caters to all walks of life, located a short distance away from campus on High Holborn. • Experimental Cocktail Club (ECC) – Located in Chinatown (on Gerrard Street) with a 1920s atmosphere and unique cocktail creations.

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• Graphic Bar – A fun Gin bar near Piccadilly Circus with two separate menus: one for British Gins and one for International Gins! • Belgo – A chain pub/restaurant located on Kingsway offering a great selection of Belgian beers, not to mention a great place to satisfy your cravings for moules frites. There is a deal with 3 courses for £19 including a pint of beer – check on their website for more info… yum! • Porterhouse – Fun bar in Covent Garden with a great beer selection and a great live music on Fridays!

FOOD NEAR LSE

• Fields Bar & Kitchen – Great pizza place in Lincoln Inn Fields on campus, offers a student discount • Prêt à Manger – Sandwiches and soup to take-away. • Wasabi – Sushi! • Subway – Sandwiches. • Itsu – Sushi as well. If you go there half-an-hour before closure, you get a 50% discount. • Birley – Sandwiches and soup. • VietEat – Phô. • Hiba – Shawarma sandwiches and mezze. Hummus Bros – The name says it … hummus. • Bierkeller – Sausages and schnitzel. • Leon – “Fancy” fast food that also offers a nice student discount (at the Holborn branch).

CAFES NEAR LSE

• The Espresso Room – Near the upper West corner of Lincoln’s Inn Field. Good coffee and cakes, the basement makes for a nice spot for work meetings. LSE discounts available. • Benugo Fields – Located in the middle of Lincoln’s Inn Field. Good coffee, good food and they give a discount for students! • Wright’s Bar – Located on campus, next to the Old Building. Cheapest coffee and food … but beware of its taste! • Timberyard – Trendy café in Covent Garden. Good study spot. • Hoxton Hotel, High Holborn branch – head to the café in the lobby at lunchtime on Monday and you will undoubtedly find someone to work through your weekly problem set with. • By Chloe – Vegan food • The Lebanese Bakery – Delicious Lebanese flat breads (similar to Pizzas) that are between 6-9pounds each • Drury Lane Café – Excellent iced lattes and brownies to die for

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FREE WIFI NEAR LSE

Wi-Fi is easily found at many cafes and restaurants across the city in addition to most areas of the LSE campus. The Cloud is a free service provider that requires you to sign-up but can be used at many venues throughout the city.

• Starbucks (several nearby including on Kingsway and Fleet Street) • The Espresso Room (next to Lincolns Inn Fields/New Academic Building) • Costa Coffee (on Kingsway) Caffé Nero (on Kingsway) Wagamama (on Kingsway) • The Waldorf Hotel (on Aldwych, can use free internet in lobby for one-hour time blocks) • McDonald’s (near the Tube on High Holborn Street)

PLAYING “TOURIST”

Helpful Websites for reviews, events, etc… • Timeout London • Londonist • TKTS • Transport for London • Trip Advisor • Lonely Planet • Yelp • BBC Events • Resident Advisor • LSE Events

Bargain Websites • Tastecard • Lastminute.com • OpenTable • Groupon London • Living Social London • Wowcher • Voucher Cloud • Money Supermarket

Helpful and Fun Phone Apps • Citymapper (how to get to places, restaurants/pubs/cafes addresses, etc.) • TimeOut London (events and restaurants) • Craft Beer London (pubs) • BBC News (UK news) • Yelp (restaurant ratings) • Currency Exchange Groupon (coupons) • Living Social (coupons) • Official London (tourism)

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• Street Art London (fun/tourism) • Museum of London (tourism) • Pepys Diary (tourism) • Riverside London (tourism) • Soho Stories (tourism) • Visit Stratford (tourism – home of the 2012 Olympics) • Burgerapp (food) • YPlan (event info) • London: Free & Budget (events and restaurants) • Secret London (fun/tourism) • London Music Mapp (tourism) • London’s Best Coffee (essential app).

Student Discounts

Once you get your student ID card, bring it with you wherever you go. Be sure to ask at the checkout as you can often get a discount of 10% or more – those savings will really add up over your two years in London. You never know who is offering a student discount whether it be a café or a clothing store.

The LSE card will get you discounts at most movie theatres, plays, the opera, many restaurants (free extra burger at McDonald’s!), clothing stores and even some pubs and clubs. Be sure to check out websites like Student Beans for other student discounts around town.

Other places require an (NUS) Totum Card to get the discount.

Markets

• Brick Lane - Open Sundays 8am to 2pm (you can buy just about everything here). Borough - Open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (artisan food – so good!). • Petticoat Lane - Open Monday to Friday (clothing and fashion). • New Spitalfields – Crafts, clothes, artwork, and more! Cheaper during the week than the weekend. • Portobello Road - Fruit and veggie stalls throughout the week, antiques on Saturday. • Camden - Collection of markets that sell clothes, crafts, antiques, fast food that trend toward alternative. • Sunday Up-Market - Open Sunday 10am to 5pm, sells a little something for everyone. • Brixton - African and Caribbean produce. Very funky! • Broadway Street - Great for food. Next to London Fields and the canal. • Bermondsey Antique Market – Open Friday from 6am to 2pm, this market has garnered a reputation throughout the UK for its antiques. You can find everything from old watches, to silverware and hog heads. • Columbia Road Flower Market – Open Sundays from 8am ’til 3'ish.

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• Maltby Market – food and gin distilleries

Most neighbourhoods have farmers’ markets all year round so be sure to inquire about the closest to you!

Outside the City

• Stonehenge - You have heard of it, of course, but have you been there? • Bath - World Heritage Site – Come for the history, stay for the spa • Windsor Castle - Originally built by William the Conqueror and still in use as a residence. Also, burial locations of past Kings and Queens of England, plus home to Knights of the Round Table! • Brighton - Seaside resort town, the cliffs nearby are spectacular. The Royal Pavilion and the North Laine/The Lanes area are worth a visit. • The Peak District – Located in Central and Northern England, see in person landscapes featured in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice (Derbyshire Peak District), as one of many who was inspired by the views • The Lake District - Largest of the national parks in England and home to its highest peak (Scafell Pike at 978 metres), the scenery inspired “Lake Poets” such as William Wordsworth • Cambridge & Oxford - Goes without saying. Punting in Cambridge is a must. Do not fall in the water!

And many more!!! Grab a guide, ask friends where to go, check Airbnb, discover BlaBlaCar, or hop on the train. If you are 25 or under, getting a RailCard is worth it – gives you discounts.

Tips for travelling around Europe during the program.

You may choose to do some travel around the UK or on continental Europe throughout the school terms, over the December break or over the summer. It is very possible to fit some weekend trips into your studies. Furthermore, traveling in Europe alone is safe if you have your wits about you so take advantage of being close to Europe and ENJOY! Always check your passport’s visa requirements! Especially if you are from outside of the EU.

There is a travel free zone within Europe called the Schengen Area. This is a sub- group of EU countries that do not have immigration barriers to travel between them. The UK is not part of this area, so you will need to carry your passport and Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) with you when travelling to Europe.

At the time of writing, the United Kingdom has left the European Union. Although EU Citizens and UK citizens can currently still travel with the same documentation as prior to Brexit, it is always worth checking the British Government’s advice on travel to and from the EU by rail, road, or air. Changes to these provisions are expected after 1 January 2021. Up-to-date information can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/visit-europe-1-january-2021

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Airports & airlines

There are several airports in London. All have flights to and from continental Europe, but some are easier to travel out to than others. No matter which airport you use, get there EARLY - security queues may be long.

Heathrow Airport – Is the largest and primary international airport in London with the most international flights. Take the Heathrow Express from Paddington (costs approximately £30 but is a direct 30-40minutes) or the Piccadilly Line (use your Oyster Card – much cheaper - but takes about 1hour) to get there.

Gatwick Airport – Gatwick is located south of London. It can be reached by the Gatwick Express which takes approximately 30minutes from Victoria Station. Trains also run from Farringdon, Blackfriars, London Bridge and St Pancras International. Trains to Brighton from Victoria Station also stop at Gatwick Airport. If you catch the Gatwick Express, you can use your Oyster Card to travel to and from the airport. Similarly, you can get a train to/from Gatwick from London Bridge and Victoria using your Oyster card – this option is usually cheaper than the Gatwick Express and not much longer in time. Note that the last trains returning to London from Gatwick airport usually leave around midnight so be aware of this if you book late flights back to London.

Luton Airport – One of the less convenient airports to get to but has many cheap flights. Trains to Luton leave from Farringdon, St Pancras International and London Blackfriars. These are not part of the underground system, so you must buy a separate ticket. At the end of any train to Luton you must catch the 10-minute shuttle bus from the train station to the airport. Any journey to or from Luton usually takes more than an hour depending on where you live in London.

Stansted Airport – Trains to Stansted leave from and return to Liverpool Street frequently. The trains need a separate ticket to travel on them and the journey takes approximately 50 minutes.

Be cautious when you book late night flights back to London as many airports transport back to London will stop running around midnight or 1am. If your flight is delayed (which is very common on budget airlines), you may miss the last train or bus back into central London and Ubers and taxis will be expensive.

Each country has several budget airlines, and most are safe and reliable (but almost always delayed). The major airlines that connect London with continental Europe include:

• Easy Jet - https://www.easyjet.com/en They only allow one carry-on bag and they are generally strict about enforcing this especially on full flights. • Ryanair - https://www.ryanair.com/gb/en/ You MUST check in online and print your ticket before taking a Ryanair flight. The penalty is £50 if you do not. • Vueling • Eurowings • Transavia • Wizzair

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One of the websites to find cheap flights is Skyscanner: https://www.skyscanner.net/ They will show all the available flights from all airlines across Europe. They also have a great feature that you can put your current location or outbound location and select your destination to be ‘Can’t Decide – Choose Everywhere’ and it will show you the cheapest flights available from your outbound location to the rest of Europe. Use this on Incognito mode online to stop the cookies they use from boosting the price of flights when you come back later.

Trains

Trains are generally more on-time than planes (especially budget airlines). Once you have arrived in continental Europe it is often more convenient to travel by train as the train stations are usually located in the centre of the city and easier to get to. They also take less time to go through security and have no immigration once on the continent and do not have restrictions on luggage allowed. If you are travelling internationally by train from London leave adequate time to go through immigration before boarding your train.

Train travel, while efficient, can be expensive from London. You can mitigate this by booking tickets well in advance. Eurostar is the company that runs most train travel from London to the continent. https://www.eurostar.com/uk-en

Travelling by train within the UK can also be expensive but it is far more efficient than the bus. Applying for a 16-25 National Rail Card will give you a discount on train tickets (usually 1/3 off the price). You can still apply for a 16-25 National Rail Card if you are older than 25 but a full-time student. (See section above)

Bus/Coach travel

Travelling by bus (also called a coach in the UK) is slow but very cheap. From London you can find buses to the rest of the UK for as little as £1 by booking in advance. • National Express Coaches are common in the UK and will take you Paris, Amsterdam, Dublin, and Brussels. https://www.nationalexpress.com/en • Flixbus are also very inexpensive and operate across the UK and Europe. • OuiBus is good for travelling in and around France.

For longer rides, you may consider taking an overnight bus to your destination. It is cheap and may save you a night of accommodation, but do not expect an extremely comfortable ride.

Buses often are delayed by traffic. Give yourself adequate time if you are using one to travel to another city to catch a flight. This is especially salient if you are crossing borders in and out of the Schengen travel zone as immigration on the buses are slow and sometimes bureaucratic.

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Other forms of transport

Ride sharing is common across Europe and is another inexpensive way to travel, especially to smaller locations. They need to be booked in advance but are a great option for airport transfers.

• Bla Bla Car operates across 21 European Countries. https://www.blablacar.co.uk/ • GoOpti operates in Slovenia and parts of Croatia, Northern Italy, and Southern Austria. https://www.goopti.com/en/ • Taxicabs are generally reliable. If you hail one off the street, make sure that they have a meter and you have a clear address of where you are going. In certain countries where Taxis may not have a meter, decide on your price, and barter it down before you get into the taxi. • Car rental is an option but be prepared for expensive young driver surcharges if you are under 25. Turo can be much more affordable depending on availability and if you are willing to split the rental with a couple of friends.

Accommodation

• Airbnb’s are everywhere in the UK and in Europe. They are generally very affordable, reliable and are great for finding a central location within your destination. https://www.airbnb.co.uk/ • Hostelworld is a good sight for looking for hostel accommodation. Hostels in Europe are a great way to meet other travellers, especially if you are traveling by yourself. • Booking.com is also a reliable source for accommodation that is neither a hostel nor Airbnb.

Phones and money

• Many UK phone plans will allow you to use your data and make calls while you are in Europe, free of charge. • The UK and continental Europe have different plugs, so you will need an adaptor in Europe. • Most countries within the EU use the same adaptor plugs. It is also wise to invest in a portable phone battery, so you do not get stranded anywhere. • It is important to carry some cash on you in Europe. Often taxis, public transport or airport shuttles will not accept credit/debit cards to buy tickets. • You can find reliable currency converters on The Strand near school or close to Kings Cross Station. • Furthermore, it is common to tip 10% for meals in Europe and often you cannot add this to the bill when paying by card. Double check on your receipts that they have not already included this in your total. • Be aware of any international transaction fees that you may have when paying for things. For example, NatWest customers are charged £2.5 every time they use their debit card.

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• Revolut Debit cards are a good way to avoid high currency conversion and ATM fees when travelling in Europe. https://www.revolut.com/ • Alternatively, many international banks will have specific traveller cards or credit cards that you can gain points on that have reasonable conversion rate and ATM fees. These are worth asking about at your bank from home before you move.

Other tips and titbits from previous SPP Students

• Water bottle – carry a water bottle with you in Europe. Many countries, notably France, the Netherlands, Germany etc. make you pay for water at meals and bars (they will refuse to serve you tap water). It is safe to drink most tap water in Europe so carrying a water bottle with you is an easy way to save money.

• Do not eat fish on a Monday – local fish markets are closed across Europe on Sundays so be wary of ‘Fresh’ fish that is served to you on a Monday because it is likely not fresh.

• If one of the budget airlines asks you to put your bag in the hold because they are out of overhead storage space, grab your passport before moving your bag.

• Citymapper also works in several other European cities and is a good way to find public transport routes.

• Check public holidays and whether your destination’s shops, restaurants and sights are open on Sundays (Switzerland and Austria are closed on Sundays).

• Look after your BRP, treat it like your passport! If you lose this and leave the country, you may be questioned and held at the border checkpoint upon returning to the UK.

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